A Study of Dedications in 18th-century Publications: a Literary Contribution to Bibliography and Book Studies

The review of the monograph of the Doctor of Philology N.D. Kochetkova “Dedications in Russian publications of the 18 century: research, texts, bibliographic index” (Moscow; St. Petersburg, 2020) is presented. The content of this scientific work, which is important both for the history of Russian literature of the 18 century, and for bibliography, book studies and related humanities, is revealed. It is noted that the dedications reflect the most diverse aspects of the life of writers of the Enlightenment era: from client-patronage relations with government officials to friendships and family unions. This fact makes them an important source in historical and cultural research. The monograph analyzes dedications to various recipients: members of the royal family, dignitaries, heads of educational institutions, representatives of the clergy, women, friends, relatives, scientists and writers. An important component of the monograph is a detailed index of dedications in publications of the 18 century, including about 1780 items. It is a contribution to the bibliography of the Russian book of the 18 century and creates prospects for further research of dedications within the framework of literary studies, cultural history, and book studies. It is concluded that the monograph by N.D. Kochetkova will be a reference book for specialists studying Russian in the 18 century.